App could help patients overcome dental anxiety

A new app created by the NYU College of Dentistry and Penn School of Dental Medicine can potentially decrease the stress of going to the dentist by using cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness.

In a study, half of participants reported that they were no longer fearful of dental appointments.

The use of virtual reality is also being studied as a way to guide patients through simulated appointments.

“These technologies empower patients via strategies to manage their thoughts, feelings and behavior at their next dental appointment,” says Richard Heyman, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist and co-director of the NYU Dentistry Family Translational Research Group. 

Full story: NYU

The article presented here is intended to inform you about the broader media perspective on dentistry, regardless of its alignment with the ADA's stance. It is important to note that publication of an article does not imply the ADA's endorsement, agreement, or promotion of its content.